Successful CARICOM Reparations Conference Brings Bonaire’s Voice to the Global Stage
Following his participation in the Third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparations, held toward the end of last week in Barbados, James Finies founder of BHRO—an Associate Member of the CARICOM Reparations Commission and accredited to the United Nations—stated that Bonaire’s voice was brought before an important regional and international platform for reparatory justice.
The conference brought together Caribbean leaders, international representatives, scholars, civil-society organizations and advocates to address the future of the global reparations movement.
Among the powerful messages delivered was CARICOM Reparations Commission Chairman Professor Sir Hilary Beckles’s call: “Let the negotiations begin.” Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley emphasized the Caribbean’s demand for justice, while CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett described reparations as fundamentally about “recognition, accountability and transformation.”
Through his interventions and participation, James Finies ensured that Bonaire’s history, experiences, and voice were heard and recognized as part of this important regional and international conversation. These were powerful messages for Bonaire and the entire Caribbean.
Furthermore, through his interventions and participation, Finies emphasized that the conference demonstrated how the reparations movement is advancing beyond remembrance toward action, dialogue, negotiation, and meaningful engagement.
“Bonaire has a voice, and we will continue bringing that voice to the highest regional and international platforms. The message from Barbados was clear: the time for meaningful action has arrived.”
